Israel rejects French role in Lebanon talks

Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, has reiterated that Israel does not want France involved in the ongoing Israel-Lebanon negotiations, aiming to keep them "as far away as possible." The statement, delivered in a video message, underscores Israel's preference for a negotiation framework likely centered on direct talks with U.S. mediation. This position complicates the diplomatic landscape, as France has historically played a role in Lebanese affairs. The negotiations, hosted by the United States, are focused on resolving border tensions and the status of Hezbollah.